Solar power is more available and affordable for Americans than ever before. Many people already know that solar power is highly beneficial for domestic and commercial buildings alike.
So, what are the main benefits of switching to solar power? If you’re considering the switch for your home, here are some of the top reasons to do so.
1. Save Money
One of the most popular reasons to switch to solar power is the savings. Did you know you can save up to $100 a month by going solar? If you were to keep your solar panels for the average warranty time (twenty years), you could save yourself up to $30,000.
Similarly, many solar panel companies are lowering the cost of solar. These days you’ll have to put little to nothing down as a deposit in order to install your panels. One popular option is allowing a third party company to own the panels while you pay-as-you-go for your energy.
The way you pay won’t be much different from the way you’re used to paying your utilities. However, the cost should be far less each month because your home is using solar power.
2. Investing in the Future
For many people, purchasing solar panels is an investment in the future. It’s possible to make the money you spend on your panels back from your savings within five years.
From then onwards, the savings from your solar panels are yours to use as you wish. You’ll have another fifteen years before your panels need to be replaced. However, panels that are over forty years old are still working at 80% efficiency.
3. Increase the Value of Your Home
In today’s market, homes with solar panels sell much faster than homes without them. Similarly to the way people look for homes near to good schools or with low property taxes, solar panels are becoming the top of buyer’s priority lists.
Not only will your home sell a lot faster than you may expect, but solar panels will also increase the value of your home. Your home could be valued thousands of dollars more than you bought it for with the help of solar.
4. Look After the Environment
The financial aspect of installing solar panels is impressive but the effect solar energy has on our planet is just as important. Did you know that owning solar panels for ten years is the equivalent to planting 122 trees?
The US releases 17.9% of carbon dioxide emissions annually, so the more people that opt for solar power, the better. Solar power produces clean energy which contributes to cleaner air.
Cleaner air is healthier for everyone. In addition, a healthier environment means slower climate change and fewer weather extremes.
5. Reliability
Have you ever been in the middle of doing something important when a power outage occurs? Perhaps you’ve had to rely on generators during a storm? The great thing about solar power is that it’s highly reliable.
You won’t have to spend hours on the phone with an energy company trying to get your power back on or waiting for a maintenance person to visit your home. Solar panels are notoriously low maintenance and they’re built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
As long as you hire a professional to periodically check your panels, it’s likely you’ll never have a problem with them.
6. U.S. Independence
Currently, the US relies on net imports to meet consumer demand for petroleum. By installing solar panels, you can contribute to a reduction in the amount the US has to depend on other countries for its energy.
At some point, oil, gas and other sources of energy are going to run out. These sources of energy are also expensive and make huge demands on our economy. Choosing to use solar energy instead is a huge step in the right direction for the future of the country.
7. Convenience
Up until a few years ago, you may have had few options when it came to choosing your solar panels. Fortunately, shopping for solar energy has never been more convenient. There are tons of solar panel companies to choose from, so you can get a few quotes.
Many installation processes won’t require you to be home in order to get your solar panels installed and working. That means you don’t have to worry about taking time off work to get the job done.
Is My Home Suitable for Solar Power?
The good news is, most homes are suitable for solar panels. You don’t have to live in a particular area or worry about the design of your home. As long as the sun is shining, you have everything you need for solar-powered panels.
If your home isn’t detached, you’ll still be able to install panels and you don’t have to worry about them being stolen either. Solar panels are securely fitted to your home, so they won’t be easily moved.
The installation process is usually quick and easy which means you won’t have to apologize to your neighbors for loud noises and your energy supply is quick to kick in and build up.
Switching to Solar Power Today
If you’re ready for switching to solar power today, you won’t regret it. The advantages of switching over far outweigh any disadvantages.
Along with creating a better future for yourself and your family, you’ll be contributing to the health of others too.Why not take a look at some of the mind-blowing statistics from the Department of Energy on solar energy in the United States? If you’re not convinced yet, you certainly will be after seeing this evidence.